Hands are some of the most important parts of the body. They are used for many tasks, such as writing, cooking, and driving. It’s no wonder that hand injuries are so common. In this blog post, we will discuss five of the most common misconceptions about hand injuries. We will also provide information about how to properly care for a hand injury.
One of the most common misconceptions about hand injuries is that they are not serious. This is simply not true. Hand injuries can be very serious, and even life-threatening. If you have a hand injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
While some hand injuries may seem minor, such as a cut or scrape, they can still result in infection. Infections of the hand can lead to gangrene, which can be fatal. It is important to clean any wounds on your hands immediately and to see a doctor if the wound does not heal within a few days.
Another serious type of hand injury is a burn. Burns can range from first-degree burns, which only affect the outer layer of skin, to third-degree burns, which affect all layers of skin and can even damage bones. Burns can be very painful and can result in scarring. If you have a burn on your hand, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Even if a hand injury does not seem serious, it is always best to err on the side of caution and see a doctor.
Another misconception about hand injuries is that they only happen to people who work with their hands. This is not true. Hand injuries can happen to anyone, at any time. Some of the most common causes of hand injuries include car accidents, falls, and sports injuries. So, if you have a hand injury, don’t assume that it’s because you work with your hands. See a doctor right away, regardless of the cause of your injury.
Another common misconception about hand injuries is that they will heal quickly. This is not always the case. Depending on the type and severity of your injury, it may take weeks or even months for your hand to fully heal. Some hand injuries, such as burns, can result in permanent scarring. So, if you have a hand injury, be patient and give your body time to heal.
If you have a hand injury that does not seem to be healing properly, or if you are experiencing pain, it is important to see a doctor. They will be able to properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Many people believe that they can treat a hand injury at home. However, this is not always the case. Some hand injuries, such as burns and infections, require medical attention. If you are unsure whether or not your injury requires medical attention, it is always best to err on the side of caution and see a doctor.
Attempting to treat a serious hand injury at home can be very dangerous. So, if you have any doubts about your ability to properly care for your injury, please see a doctor right away.
The final misconception that we will discuss is the belief that there is nothing you can do to prevent hand injuries. This is not true. There are several things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing a hand injury.
First, it is important to practice safe work habits. If you work with your hands, be sure to wear gloves and other protective gear when necessary. Second, it is important to stay active and maintain good muscle strength. Strong muscles help to protect the hands from injury. Finally, it is important to pay attention to your body and listen to what it’s telling you. If you experience pain or discomfort in your hands, stop what you’re doing and see a doctor.
By following these simple tips, you can help to prevent hand injuries. However, even if you do everything right, there is still a chance that you could develop a hand injury. So, if you do experience an injury, don’t hesitate to see a doctor right away.
Hand injuries are no joke. If you think that you may have injured your hand, please see a doctor as soon as possible. And, remember, if you have any questions or concerns about hand injuries, be sure to ask your doctor. They will be more than happy to help you out!
Dr. Chen sees patients at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital Center for Sports Medicine in Walnut Creek, California. He is a board-certified Pediatrician and Sports Medicine Doctor that specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of a wide variety of various musculoskeletal conditions. Dr. Chen graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine and went on to complete Pediatric residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (Rutgers), then went on to fellowship training in Sports Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, one of the perennially top ranked children’s hospitals in the nation. There he provided sideline coverage for NCAA Division I athletics at the University of Cincinnati and Miami University (OH). Since graduating, Dr. Chen has continued his love of sports coverage by volunteering for the San Francisco Marathon, the San Francisco Giant Race, and as the team physician for Northgate High School in Walnut Creek. Being a part of The Center for Sports Medicine allows Dr. Chen quick access to a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to return you to your highest functional level quickly and safely. Click here to contact us for your next appointment!
925-934-3536
stephen.chen@eastbaysportsdoc.com